DocFest Develops | Sheffield DocFest

A banner with text reading 'DocFest Develops - Empowering the next generation of storytellers.'

Our development initiatives support emerging and mid-level filmmakers and artists to grow in confidence, creativity, and craft.

Through training, mentorship, and opportunities for collaboration across non-fiction factual - including our long-running Youth Jury and career-focused training schemes - we are committed to empowering the next generation of storytellers.

Current opportunities

2027 Youth Jury

Applications are now open for our 2027 Youth Jury programme - which is for anyone aged 18-23, based in the UK, and with a passion for documentary and the media industry!

A group of Sheffield DocFest staff and volunteers pose for a photo.

Volunteering Programme

Every year, our DocCrew volunteers play a vital part in bringing Sheffield DocFest to life, whilst gaining valuable hands-on experience in a range of exciting roles.

Queer Realities Lab 2026-2027

Our Queer Realities Director’s Lab has returned for two more editions, supported by the BFI National Lottery Creative Challenge Fund, awarding National Lottery Good Cause funding.

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Work experience

We work with educational organisations and local employment charities to offer structured office-based placements and work experience within our year-round team.

If you are a student who needs employability credits as part of your course, or if you are a local organisation looking for opportunities for students and/or service users to gain valuable employability skills in an arts and culture setting, get in touch.

A man wearing a blazer and red shirt, and a woman wearing a black top and trousers present at Sheffield DocFest.

Guest lectures from the DocFest team

We offer in-person and online talks for students studying a range of topics. This can be anything from film programming to fundraising for a film, events management or delivering a festival.

If you are interested in one of our team members talking to your students, please get in touch.